wise [OE] Both wise and wisdom [OE] are related to wit [OE], and the three words share an ancient root meaning ‘to know’. The -wise in clockwise [L19th] and lengthwise [L16th] means ‘way, manner’, but is ultimately related to the other wise. Of the many proverbs and sayings relating to wisdom, it is easy to be wise after the event originated in the early 17th century, whereas the price of wisdom is above rubies comes from the biblical book of Job. In the USA a wise guy [L19th] is a person who makes sarcastic remarks to show off. Since the 1970s it has also been a term for a member of the Mafia. Streetwise dates from the mid 20th century. See also early, history, ignorance, magic, monkey, word.